—v.t.1. to connect or bring into relation, as thought, feeling, memory, etc.: Many people associate dark clouds with depression and gloom.2. to join as a companion, partner, or ally: to associate oneself with a cause.3. to unite; combine: coal associated with shale.

—v.i.1. to enter into union; unite.
2. to keep company, as a friend, companion, or ally: He was accused of associating with known criminals.3. to join together as partners or colleagues.

—n.1. a person who shares actively in anything as a business, enterprise, or undertaking; partner; colleague; fellow worker: He consulted with his associates before proceeding further.2. a companion or comrade: my most intimate associates.3. a confederate; an accomplice or ally: criminal associates.4. anything usually accompanying or associated with another; an accompaniment or concomitant.
5. a person who is admitted to a subordinate degree of membership in an association or institution: an associate of the Royal Academy.

—adj.1. connected, joined, or related, esp. as a companion or colleague; having equal or nearly equal responsibility: an associate partner.2. having subordinate status; without full rights and privileges: an associate member.3. allied; concomitant.